Car accidents can be very dangerous and stressful. Car accidents are most often caused by bad weather or animals such as deer. Many drivers don’t feel they are responsible for a single accident because there was nothing they could have done to prevent it. Insurance companies are more likely to agree with you if your car was hit by an object flying at it.
What are some single car accident examples?
Distracted Driving
Accidents caused by distracted driving are on the rise. Drivers are more likely to multitask while driving. Today’s distractions are increasing. Cell phones, GPS and on-board televisions can distract you from the road. Your insurance claim will be considered at fault if you are distracted and lose control of your vehicle.
To avoid an accident, it is important to limit multitasking and use of cell phones while driving. Many states and metropolitan areas have passed laws that make it illegal to use a cell phone while driving. You could be fined and even jailed if you use your phone in an accident.
Extreme Weather Conditions
Single car accidents are most often caused by driving on slippery roads. It can be difficult to see ice patches on roads, which can lead to a driver losing control of their vehicle. Even if the police do not give you a moving violation, hitting a ditch or tree, guardrails, or snowbanks will still be considered an accident. This will increase your insurance premiums and add points to your policy.
It may be wise to use public transportation or stay home if the weather is extremely bad. You should always allow yourself more space for stopping, and reduce your speed as much as possible before you apply the brakes.
Pot Holes
Drivers are increasingly facing potholes. Roads have been severely damaged by severe climate changes, especially in the northern regions. A pothole is still considered an accident if the driver is at fault. This might seem unfair, especially as it is nearly impossible to avoid potholes when there is nowhere else on the road. Because these types of claims are almost inevitable, insurance companies do not want to be held responsible for vehicles that have been damaged.
Avoid pot holes by driving cautiously and, if possible, swerving around them. To avoid damaging your car, slow down and reduce your speed if you are unable to swerve. Be alert and allow yourself more time to slow down.
Hitting an animal
It is a natural instinct reaction to try and avoid animals by swerving. This can sometimes prove dangerous. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit guard rails, trees, ditches, embankments, trees, ditches, or oncoming traffic if you swerve. Although it’s unfortunate, it’s safer to actually hit an animal. A collision with an animal will be considered a comprehensive claim. Your insurance will pay for it and you won’t be held liable. Your insurance company will consider an accident if you swerve or cause an accident.
Be aware of signs warning you about deer-populated areas, and keep your eyes open while driving. It is better to avoid an animal than to drive around it.
Flying Object
Your vehicle will not be considered at-fault if it is struck by a flying object. Flying objects could be rocks, debris, or branches that land on your vehicle while you drive. These incidents are all covered by your insurance and can be considered comprehensive.
The driver must ensure that the vehicle is kept in control during adverse weather conditions, road potholes, and areas populated by animals. Even if the police do not issue a ticket or fine for moving violations, the insurance company will consider your claim as at-fault. If the damage isn’t too severe, it might be a good idea to not report it to the insurance company.